New York State officials are planning a reimagined, mixed-use development for the Aqueduct Racetrack on a 100-acre parcel in Queens.
New York’s Empire State Development has gathered community input on the future of the site, which is owned by the New York State Franchise Oversight Board.
Aqueduct has operated as a horse racing venue since the late 1800s, but aging facilities and declining attendance have prompted plans to close the track. The final race is scheduled for June 28, 2026, with racing operations shifting to nearby Belmont Park.
Members of Queens Community Board 10, which represents the 10 surrounding communities, have expressed a desire to play an active role in the redevelopment process. ESD officials said they welcome the board’s input and have emphasized a transparent planning process, with housing and mixed-use development expected to be part of the discussion.
Current discussions include the possibility of creating a resort-style destination in collaboration with Resorts World New York City. The gaming operator recently opened live table games at its Aqueduct-based facility, and Community Board 10 officials said the partnership built over the past 15 years could make Resorts World a strong fit for the property.
A private firm has proposed a $5.5 billion investment that would create what it says would be the nation’s largest integrated resort destination. State officials said the company, like other developers, would be considered through the formal request-for-proposals process.
The Aqueduct site has been the focus of redevelopment discussions for years. Previous concepts have included a large convention center, a potential sale of the property and, more recently, plans centered on creating a new neighborhood.
Regardless of past proposals, ESD plans to continue hosting community input meetings through the end of the year, with a completed master plan expected by early 2027.
Photo by Terrance Barksdale from Pexels
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